Thread: Spring lift Vs. Strut Spacers...

As I have only experienced the spacer lift in reality I have to rely on basic principles for these comments.

The clearance issues with the anti-roll bar, steering arm and (on the V6 at least) fuel lines are related to the relative change in position of the lower suspension components.

With a spacer lift you change the relative position by moving all of the suspension away from the body, while a spring lift pushes the body higher within the constraints of the original suspension travel and heights.

So the spring lift doesn't actually change the relative position and shouldn't have the same need to modify components for clearance reasons. However it will also have stiffer suspension as a result and spend more time with 1 or 2 wheels in the air. A spring lift does not provide increased clearance under virtually all conditions the way a spacer lift does.

Having gone with the 50mm spacer lift, I say use spacers (with a reduced lift) and go up on tyre size a little.

Modifications and life are both a collection of compromises.

This topic is a well beaten horse.

Go spacer lift. maybe 40mm, as it seems best for considering interference issues.


Spring lift is nicer on the road, but lift wheels too easily, due to offseting an originally neutral rest position. Admittedly they do sag, my +40mm springs are closer to +10mm after considerable abuse (and armour). But still feel much stiffer.

Thanks guys. I know this topic has been done to death.
I was leaning towards the spacer lift but I was unaware of the wheels tendency to lift with the springs so I think I am sold on 40mm spacers and bigger tyres. I think I'll go to the wreckers and measure up some struts. Hopefully save me the hassle of pulling the car apart, measuring up, making the spacers then putting the whole lot back together in one hit.

Thanks again. I promise I will never mention suspension lifts again!